Artificial intelligence is reshaping daily life worldwide as companies pour billions into the technology and governments rush to set strategies and reorder priorities, seeking to keep pace with an intense global race led by major powers. Below are some of the leading national strategies aimed at building Arab artificial intelligence capabilities in the coming years.
Qatar’s government AI programme
Qatar’s government AI programme is a national initiative led by the state in partnership with global and local technology companies. It has four stated goals: AI-driven innovation, advanced infrastructure, strategic local, regional and international partnerships, and improved quality of services.
The programme is designed to facilitate the adoption of AI technologies by proposing, reviewing and implementing new ideas. The door is opened every three months for new partners to join, following a review process. Key Qatari projects to date include the Tourist Companion project, the labour contract compliance project, “Fanar,” and a generative AI model in the Arabic language.
Egypt’s 2030 strategy
Among Arab AI plans is Egypt’s artificial intelligence strategy for 2025–2030. It focuses on ensuring the ethical and responsible use of AI, improving quality of life, and boosting efficiency across sectors through the development of innovative applications, models and algorithms, including deep learning across various fields.
The strategy also includes efforts to provide high-quality data, advanced cloud computing infrastructure, and high-speed connectivity.
Morocco’s digitalisation plan 2030
Morocco has adopted a plan that extends to 2030 and aims to harness AI capabilities in both the public and private sectors. The goal is to support the digitalisation of public services, contribute to the development of the digital economy, and improve services for citizens and businesses.
The plan seeks to achieve its objectives by supporting data projects, backing companies active in AI, attracting specialised international players, developing skills, and building a strong, adaptable infrastructure, alongside clear evaluation mechanisms.
Jordan’s artificial intelligence strategy 2027
Amman has approved an AI strategy and implementation plan covering 2023 to 2027, in cooperation with the European Union, the UN Economic and Social Commission, and the UN Industrial Development Organisation.
The plan aims to position Jordan as a regional competitor in the field, adopt AI technologies through Jordanian human resources, and strengthen digital infrastructure. It centres on developing the ecosystem, enhancing the investment and entrepreneurship environment, ensuring supportive legislative and regulatory frameworks, and improving the efficiency of the public sector and priority sectors.
Saudi Arabia’s investments in Arab AI
One of the most prominent Arab AI initiatives is Saudi Arabia’s large-scale investment in data and artificial intelligence as part of its Vision 2030 ambition to diversify the economy away from oil.
The kingdom has established a $100bn fund to invest in AI and other technologies and has negotiated an additional $40bn investment in global AI companies. Estimates suggest AI could add around $135bn to Saudi Arabia’s gross domestic product by 2030.
UAE 2071
The UAE’s AI strategy aims to achieve the goals of the UAE Centennial 2071 by relying on AI in services and data analysis at a rate of 100% by 2031. The strategy seeks to enhance government performance, accelerate delivery, and create innovative work environments.
Libya’s national AI strategy 2030
Libya’s national AI strategy runs from 2025 to 2030. It focuses on training and developing young Libyan talent in data science and artificial intelligence and on establishing the frameworks and legislation needed to ensure the safe and ethical use of AI technologies.
The strategy also includes deploying AI solutions in strategic sectors such as health, education and energy.